Gov Mutfwang Advises SEC 48 Participants Of National Institute On Creative Economy

Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State has stated that the creative economy is not an abstract construct, but a living evolving sector that thrives at the intersection of commerce, culture, tourism, and innovation.

He said the sector is also contributing significantly to Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and strengthening social cohesion and national identity.

Mutfwang spoke during the inauguration of the Senior Executive Course (SEC) 48 of the National Institute of Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS) Kuru near Jos.

The governor who was represented by his deputy Ngo Josephine Piyo said the focus on the Orange Economy is both timely and strategic, the creative economy is no longer peripheral to national development.

According to him, it is a vital growth frontier, encompassing culture, arts, media, fashion, film, music, tourism, design, and digital innovation, sectors driven by human creativity, talent, and enterprise.

“For a country like Nigeria; diverse and culturally rich, the opportunities within the creative economy are immense, with the right policies, investments, and institutional support.”

Mutfwang pointed out that the sector can generate jobs, empower youth and women, attract global markets, and drive sustainable economic growth beyond traditional resource dependence.

He maintained that Plateau State recognizes this potential adding that his administration is firmly committed to providing an enabling environment for policy innovation, entrepreneurship, and economic expansion.

“We believe that governance must create the conditions under which ideas can flourish, businesses can grow, and talent can be transformed into value.

“Our collaboration with NIPSS is therefore strategic, it aligns with our resolve to support evidence-based policymaking, rigorous research, and informed executive decision-making.”

The governor also stated that he is confident that the insights and recommendations that will emerge from this course will contribute meaningfully to advancing creative industry development, not only in Plateau State but across Nigeria.

“Let me assure you that Plateau State will continue to provide a conducive environment for learning, research, and strategic engagement with NIPSS. We see this partnership as a mutually beneficial one that strengthens institutional capacity while contributing to national policy discourse and reform.”

Mutfwang expressed optimism that the work they will undertake during this course will help shape policies that strengthen Nigeria’s creative economy, stimulate innovation-driven development, and promote inclusive national growth.

Meanwhile, the Director General of the National Institute of Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS) Kuru, Prof Ayo Omotayo also challenged participants  to move beyond familiar assumptions, interrogate complex national and global issues, to produce policy options that are practical, evidence-based, and implementable.

According to him, the objective is not academic abstraction, but policy relevance and national impact while urging them to approach this course with humility, curiosity, and a strong sense of purpose.

“Be prepared to question established orthodoxies, including your own. Engage constructively with differing viewpoints and draw strength from the diversity of experiences represented within your Course,” he said.

He tasked the participants to remain constantly mindful that the ultimate value of their engagement at NIPSS lies in its contribution to national development and its potential to improve the lives of ordinary Nigerians.